For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, three players have reached the seven-goal mark in the same edition of the tournament.

Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Lionel Messi have all scored seven goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, creating a remarkable chapter in football’s biggest competition.

The World Cup has always been a stage where one extraordinary goalscorer rises above the rest. From Just Fontaine’s legendary 13 goals in 1958 to Ronaldo Nazário’s eight in 2002 and James Rodríguez’s six in 2014, Golden Boot races have traditionally been dominated by a single standout performer.

The 2026 edition, however, has witnessed an unprecedented battle among three of the game’s greatest forwards.

Norway striker Erling Haaland has led his nation with relentless finishing and physical dominance, turning every opportunity into a scoring chance. He scored a brace against Brazil to script history for Norway as they have advanced to the quarterfinals, and has taken the tally to 7 goals. The Norwegian also became the first European player to score in all of his first four World Cup matches after Italy’s Cristian Vieri back in 1998.

France’s Kylian Mbappe has once again showcased his devastating pace and clinical finishing, further cementing his reputation as one of the greatest World Cup performers of the modern era. The Frenchman is on 7 goals.

Meanwhile, Argentina’s Lionel Messi, playing in what could be his final World Cup, continues to defy age with his magical left foot for the Albicelestes as his latest goal came against Cabo Verde in their 3-2 win in the Round of 32.

With the knockout rounds still unfolding, the Golden Boot race remains wide open. Every goal from this point could decide not only the individual award but also the destiny of their respective nations.

Most Goals in FIFA World Cup 2026

Erling Haaland (Norway) – 7

Kylian Mbappe (France) – 7

Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 7

Harry Kane (England) – 5

Ousmane Dembele (France) – 4